Tired of people telling you to quit tea and coffee? Nutritionist says they are harmless if taken...
Also Read | Doctor shares general health, reproductive and fertility tests every woman born between 1990 and 1997 should get done
Should you quit tea and coffee?
One of the things that people eliminate from their diet is tea or coffee. However, according to Dr Anamika Raghuvanshi, naturopath, nutritionist and lifestyle educator, tea and coffee are harmless if taken in moderation.
In a post shared on August 4, the nutritionist stressed avoiding cutting out tea and coffee from your diet, and wrote, 'Tired of people telling you to quit tea and coffee? I don't think you should.' She also offered 3 great alternatives that you can include in your diet and mentioned the concoctions' benefits and how to make them.
Here are some great alternatives the nutritionist suggested:
1. Cinnamon-Fennel Tea
Benefits: Drinking cinnamon and fennel tea will help soothe digestion, reduce bloating, and balance blood sugar.
How to make: Boil 1 tsp fennel seeds + 1/2 tsp cinnamon stick in 2 cups water. Strain and sip warm.
2. Golden Turmeric Latte (Caffeine-Free Haldi Doodh)
Benefits: Listing the benefits of the latter, the nutritionist wrote, 'Anti-inflammatory, immunity booster, supports liver detox.'
How to make: Simmer 1 cup almond/coconut milk with 1/2 tsp turmeric, a pinch of black pepper, and cinnamon.
3. Lemongrass-Ginger Herbal Infusion
Benefits: Per the nutritionist, a concoction made from lemongrass and ginger is refreshing, anti-microbial, and good for gut and respiratory health.
How to make: Boil fresh lemongrass stalks and sliced ginger for 5–7 minutes. Strain and enjoy.
Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hindustan Times
9 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Cardiologist reveals how monsoon's unpredictable weather adversely affects heart, shares 7 measures to stay protected
Monsoon may sing to your heart with the calming rain, soulful winds, green scenery turning greener, and a soothing drop in temperatures. There's something inherently romantic about the season, or that's what the surface-level, mainstream sentiment makes you feel. Because in reality, monsoon weather conditions bring challenges for health. Let's take a closer look at how monsoon may negatively influence cardiac health, irrespective of how one's 'heart' may deem monsoon as romantic. Monsoon spikes the risk of heart complications if proper care is not taken.(Shutterstock) ALSO READ: Orthopaedic surgeon shares how 29-year-old 'healthy young man' died from sudden cardiac arrest: 'No smoking, no alcohol' Dr Nagendra Singh Chouhan, Senior Director at Interventional Cardiology, Cardiac Care, Medanta, Gurugram, shared that the monsoon affects both psychological and physiological health, which in turn puts added strain on the heart. Shedding light on the unpredictable monsoon weather, he said, 'The monsoon season, characterised by increased precipitation and cooler temperatures, offers a change from summer conditions. However, this period also presents specific challenges to cardiovascular health. The monsoon can subtly elevate the risk of cardiac complications, necessitating an understanding of these factors and the implementation of preventative measures.' What are the risks? Monsoon increases the risks of SAD, which is Seasonal Affective Disorder. This in turn puts strain on heart.(PC: Pexels) Dr Nagendra Singh Chouhan listed out the weather and environmental conditions of monsoon and how they all impact heart health: 1. Damp environment Increased infection: The damp and humid environment fosters the proliferation of pathogens, leading to a rise in viral and bacterial infections, including influenza, common colds, and gastroenteritis. The damp and humid environment fosters the proliferation of pathogens, leading to a rise in viral and bacterial infections, including influenza, common colds, and gastroenteritis. People with pre-existing heart conditions are at risk: For individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions, these infections pose a significant risk. Infection triggers a systemic inflammatory response, which can impose additional strain on the heart. For individuals with pre-existing cardiac conditions, these infections pose a significant risk. Infection triggers a systemic inflammatory response, which can impose additional strain on the heart. Increase in certain heart conditions: This strain may result in arrhythmias, increase heart failure risk, or, in susceptible individuals, contribute to myocardial infarction. The body's immune response also increases metabolic demand, further burdening a compromised cardiac system. 2. Fluctuating temperature and high humidity Blood pressure instability: Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can affect blood pressure regulation. While initial temperature drops may appear beneficial, rapid changes can induce vasoconstriction or vasodilation, leading to blood pressure instability. Fluctuations in temperature and humidity can affect blood pressure regulation. While initial temperature drops may appear beneficial, rapid changes can induce vasoconstriction or vasodilation, leading to blood pressure instability. People with hypertension and pulmonary conditions are at risk: For hypertensive individuals, this instability is particularly hazardous. Elevated humidity can also obstruct respiration, especially for those with underlying pulmonary conditions, thereby increasing cardiac workload to maintain adequate oxygenation. 3. Low sunlight Why are people SAD in monsoon: Reduced sunlight and persistent overcast conditions can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or worsen existing mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Reduced sunlight and persistent overcast conditions can trigger seasonal affective disorder (SAD) or worsen existing mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression. Why anxiety, stress are bad for heart: Chronic stress and anxiety are established risk factors for cardiovascular disease, as they can lead to increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and systemic inflammation. Lifestyle changes that help Monsoon cravings include fritters, which are oily and not good for cardiac health.(Shutterstock) Dr Nagendra Singh highlighted the big concern of people becoming inactive and staying indoors because of continuous rain. Because of this sedentary lifestyle, it results in weight gain and reduced heart fitness. Moreover, the monsoon increases cravings for tea, fritters, and street food. But Dr Singh reminded that these contain high fat and high sodium, which directly impact cardiac health. The poor hygienic conditions of street food also take a toll on the gut. He shared 7 essential health measures that help one stay healthy and protect heart health: Hygiene and vaccination: Adhere to rigorous hand hygiene to prevent infection. Influenza or pneumococcal vaccination is recommended, particularly for individuals with cardiac conditions, to mitigate severe illness risk, as per your doctor's advice. Dietary management: Avoid unhealthy comfort foods. Prioritise home-cooked meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit processed foods, excessive sodium, and unhealthy fats. Indoor physical activity: Maintain physical activity levels despite weather conditions. Engage in indoor exercises such as yoga, stretching, or treadmill use. Consistent, even brief, activity contributes to cardiovascular fitness. Blood pressure monitoring: Individuals with hypertension should regularly monitor blood pressure and consult a physician regarding significant fluctuations. Hydration: Ensure adequate hydration by consuming sufficient clean, boiled water to prevent dehydration and support physiological functions. Stress Management: Implement stress-reduction techniques, including meditation or deep breathing exercises. Seek professional assistance for persistent anxiety or depression. Avoid self-medication: Consult a medical professional for illness. Self-medication, particularly with over-the-counter drugs that may interact with cardiac medications, poses risks. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
17 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Just 3 minutes of calf raises can lower your blood sugar after a meal? Doctor shares the truth
Blood sugar rises after a meal. It is a concern for many people, and generally, walking is recommended to help bring it down. But not everyone has the liberty of time or space to go on an active walk after every meal. This is where simple movement, right at the desk, comes in handy. If you are sitting at desk for long time, make sure to keep yourself active with seated calf raises. (Shutterstock) ALSO READ: Doctor shares 7 health secrets that can help you manage blood sugar, improve sleep and support heart health Dr Kunal Sood, MD, anesthesiology (pain medicine), who often shares insights related to health and wellness on Instagram, on a July 12 post, shared how calf raises can help with blood sugar control after a meal. Seated calf raise helps to manage blood sugar He quoted one study from 2021, which delved into the benefits of seated calf raises or a soleus pushup in maintaining blood sugar. Dr Sood said, 'It's normal for blood sugar to rise after a meal, but even light movement can help bring it down. In one study, adults with obesity performed seated calf raises or a soleus pushup for 2.5 minutes every 5 minutes over a three-hour period. This simple repeated movement significantly lowered both blood glucose and insulin levels, compared to sitting still." Further describing how the calf movement has a connection to blood sugar, he added, 'The benefit comes from activating the soleus muscle, which is a deep calf muscle that uses glucose continuously even without intense movement or insulin spikes.' Here, as per Dr Sood, the soleus muscle gets activated when you move your calf, functioning for glucose-burning. This is useful for people who are at desk-bound jobs, indicating how even light movements can help counteract some of the negative effects of prolonged sitting, like post-meal blood sugar spikes. Not a replacement for exercise or diet This activity is a helpful add-on, not the go-to solution for all. Commonly, whenever something is found to be helpful, people wonder if it could replace other habits. But Dr Sood addressed this and reminded that regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential for long-term blood sugar control. He added, 'This is not a replacement for exercise or diet, but when done consistently, it (seated calf raise) could support better blood sugar control, especially during long periods of sitting.' Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
21 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Endometriosis specialist warns: Don't ignore asymptomatic endometriosis, says pay attention to these red flags
Endometriosis has often been characterised by its more noticeable symptoms—debilitating menstrual cramps, pelvic pain, and overwhelming fatigue. But what about those who exhibit none of these signs? Enter asymptomatic endometriosis, a lesser-known but equally concerning variant that can silently progress without warning. What happens inasymptomatic endometriosis? Why does it warrant attention? What can you do to safeguard your reproductive health? Endometriosis, thyroid conditions, PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), and other conditions can interfere with the hormones in your body. (Shutterstock) Is asymptomatic endometriosis or silent endometriosis really silent? "Asymptomatic endometriosis occurs when endometrial-like tissue grows outside the uterus, causing damage without presenting any noticeable symptoms", says Dr Smeet Patel, an Endometriosis Excision Specialist. Many women remain oblivious to its presence until it significantly impacts their fertility or overall pelvic health, as per the journal Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology. A staggering 30-40% of asymptomatic cases are often discovered inadvertently during fertility assessments or unrelated pelvic surgeries like cyst removal or hysterectomy, as per the Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care. Unfortunately, by this time, irreversible damage may have already occurred to the reproductive organs. What are the challenges of diagnosing endometriosis? One of the most prominent challenges with asymptomatic endometriosis lies in its elusive nature. There are currently no reliable non-invasive screening methods available, as per the journal Cancers: Lack of reliable tests: "Unlike other medical conditions, there's no definitive blood test, ultrasound, or MRI capable of detecting early-stage or symptom-free endometriosis. Some healthcare professionals might recommend the CA-125 test, commonly associated with ovarian cancer; however, its inaccuracy can lead to unnecessary surgeries due to false positives," shares Dr Patel. "Unlike other medical conditions, there's no definitive blood test, ultrasound, or MRI capable of detecting early-stage or symptom-free endometriosis. Some healthcare professionals might recommend the CA-125 test, commonly associated with ovarian cancer; however, its inaccuracy can lead to unnecessary surgeries due to false positives," shares Dr Patel. Invasive diagnostics: The gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis is laparoscopy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Yet, it cannot serve as a routine screening tool when no symptoms are present, leaving a concerning gap in reproductive healthcare, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. What are the risk factors of asymptomatic endometriosis? You may be asking yourself, 'If I have no symptoms, should I be concerned?' The answer largely depends on your risk factors and family planning goals. Fertility concerns: If you've been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, a fertility evaluation is recommended, even in the absence of pain symptoms. If you've been trying to conceive for 6–12 months without success, a fertility evaluation is recommended, even in the absence of pain symptoms. Family history: If endometriosis runs in your family, especially among first-degree relatives, your risk increases by up to tenfold. If endometriosis runs in your family, especially among first-degree relatives, your risk increases by up to tenfold. Autoimmune issues: Women with autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or a history of allergies are also at a higher risk. Women with autoimmune diseases (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) or a history of allergies are also at a higher risk. Prior pelvic findings: If an ovarian cyst or any other pelvic condition was identified through imaging or during a surgical procedure, consulting a specialist is wise. 'In our practice, we frequently see asymptomatic women who only discover endometriosis after years of unexplained infertility or during IVF cycles. By then, lesions may have already damaged ovarian tissue or caused irreversible scarring" Dr Smeet Patel emphasises the importance of proactive care. Does asymptomatic endometriosis need to be treated? The absence of typical symptoms does not equate to a lack of impact on reproductive health, as per the World Health Organisation. Research indicates: Contribution to infertility: Up to 50% of infertility cases can be linked to undiagnosed endometriosis. Silent lesions can cause inflammation, scarring, and even lead to ovarian cysts (endometriomas), potentially damaging reproductive organs. Up to 50% of infertility cases can be linked to undiagnosed endometriosis. Silent lesions can cause inflammation, scarring, and even lead to ovarian cysts (endometriomas), potentially damaging reproductive organs. Impact on egg quality: Inflammation related to endometriosis can impair egg quality, disrupt ovulation, or obstruct the fallopian tubes—issues that often only surface when couples encounter difficulties conceiving. Dr Linda Griffith, a renowned Massachusetts Institute of Technology researcher, aptly states, 'Endometriosis does not require pain to interfere with fertility. Inflammation can be enough to change egg quality or close up fallopian tubes.' Additionally, deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) can progress unnoticed, complicating future treatment options as per the International Journal of Fertility and Sterility. Why is the early detection of asymptomatic endometriosis important? While routine screening may not be essential for all women, being proactive can make a significant difference in their health. Here are some steps you can take:
